Dronino is a highly exotic meteorite; no other meteorite looks quite like it. The unique crenulated surface texture of this iron meteorite is the result of its unique chemical composition, the alkalinity of the soil into which it fell, and the amount of water to which it was exposed for more than 1,000 years. While 89% of iron meteorites are members of established chemical groups, the other 11% are chemically unrelated to other specimens. Dronino belongs to this exclusive “ungrouped” population of iron meteorites.

Dronino was first discovered in 2000 by a mushroom hunter outside an ancient town founded in 1152. As nothing was ever written about what would have been an exceedingly memorable event (i.e., a fireball accompanied by smoke trails and sonic booms), it’s likely Dronino’s arrived when the region was unpopulated. Given the high degree of terrestrialization (which is chiefly responsible for Droninos’ engaging shapes), a descent to Earth more than a millennium ago can be confidently inferred.

Blanketing this organic abstract form is Dronino’s unique surface texture which is present throughout. Hewn by forces both on and off Earth, with a patina ranging in hue from pewter to platinum, this engaging conversation piece from the asteroid belt is accompanied by a custom armature.

Christie's would like to thank Dr. Alan E. Rubin at the Department of Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles for his assistance in preparing this catalogue.

119 x 119 x 19mm (4.66 x 4.66 x 0.75 in.) and 525.8 grams (1 lb)